VTR-265-S Form: Storage Lien Foreclosure

VTR-265-S Form – If you’re a storage facility owner, garageman, or claimant in Texas with an abandoned vehicle accruing unpaid storage charges, the VTR-265-S Form is your key to legally foreclosing a storage lien and selling the vehicle. This official Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) document enables a public sale and title transfer to the highest bidder.

Whether you’re searching for “VTR-265-S Form,” “storage lien foreclosure Texas,” “how to foreclose vehicle storage lien,” or the “VTR-265-S PDF download,” this guide covers everything. All information comes from current official TxDMV sources (Form VTR-265-S Rev 01/25 and Motor Vehicle Title Manual Chapter 23, revised October 2025). No major changes apply in 2026.

Download the official VTR-265-S PDF here: https://www.txdmv.gov/sites/default/files/form_files/Form_VTR-265-S.pdf

What Is the VTR-265-S Form?

The Storage Lien Foreclosure (Form VTR-265-S) is a notarized affidavit used by non-licensed storage facilities or claimants to document foreclosure of a statutory storage lien. It records possession details, required notices, charges, public sale results, and compliance with Texas law. The purchaser then uses it with Form 130-U (Application for Texas Title) to obtain clear title.

Important distinction: This form applies only to general storage liens (e.g., private garages or non-licensed facilities). It does not cover:

• Licensed Vehicle Storage Facilities (VSFs) from law enforcement tows → Use VTR-265-VSF.
• Self-service storage facilities → Use VTR-265-SSF.

Legal Framework for Storage Lien Foreclosure in Texas

The process follows:

• Texas Property Code, Chapter 70 (storage liens)
• Texas Transportation Code, Chapter 683 (abandoned vehicles)

Falsifying information on the form constitutes a third-degree felony. Odometer discrepancies carry separate penalties.

Who Needs the VTR-265-S Form?

• Storage facility operators or claimants (not licensed VSFs)
• Anyone who stored a vehicle with owner consent or under city ordinance/state law
• Purchasers at the public sale seeking Texas title

You cannot use it for law enforcement-authorized tows or vehicles still in law enforcement custody.

Step-by-Step Storage Lien Foreclosure Process (Texas)

Follow these strict timelines or risk losing storage fees or the ability to foreclose:

1. Obtain Possession
   • Consent: Requires a written, dated storage contract with an expiration date. Possession begins the day after expiration.
   • Non-Consent: Under city ordinance or state law (no law enforcement tow).
2. Send Notice to Remove Vehicle (Required for non-consent; optional for consent if >5 days storage)
   • Within 5 days (Texas-registered) or 14 days (out-of-state) of possession/expiration.
   • Use certified mail, return receipt requested, to owner(s) and lienholder(s).
   • Include vehicle details, charges, location, and payment demand.
   • Alternative: Newspaper publication in limited out-of-state cases (after requesting info from the registering state).
3. Determine Abandonment & Notify Law Enforcement
   • Abandonment occurs on the 10th day after contract expiration (consent) or Notice to Remove (non-consent).
   • Notify law enforcement within 7 days of abandonment (between the 11th–17th day). Pay the $10 fee and keep proof.
   • No storage fees accrue if notification is late.
4. Public Sale (if unpaid)
   • Sell to the highest bidder on or after the 31st day after law enforcement notification (if law enforcement does not take custody).
   • Apply proceeds to charges; excess goes to the owner or county treasurer.
5. Complete Title Transfer
   • Purchaser applies for title using the completed VTR-265-S.

How to Fill Out the VTR-265-S Form

The 2-page form includes these sections (complete accurately and notarize):

• Vehicle Information: VIN, year, make, model, body style, license plate, owner name from title.
• Storage Facility/Claimant Information: Name, address.
• Foreclosure/Public Sale Information: Dates, possession type (consent or non-consent), towing/storage charges, public sale date/location/price, purchaser details.
• Law Enforcement Certification (if needed): Agency details and signature.
• Odometer Disclosure: Reading + statements (actual mileage, exceeds limits, or discrepancy warning).
• Affidavit of Statutory Lienholder: Signed statement of compliance (notarized).
• Seller/Buyer Assignment: Signatures transferring ownership.

Pro Tip: Use the latest Rev 01/25 version. Previous versions may still work, but the current one is recommended.

Required Supporting Documents for Title Application

Submit these with Form 130-U and VTR-265-S at your county tax assessor-collector office:

• Verification of title/registration (from state of record)
• Proof of Notice to Remove Vehicle (certified mail receipts)
• Proof of law enforcement notification ($10 receipt or form certification)
• Written storage contract (consent) or city ordinance (non-consent)
• Release of any recorded liens
• Purchaser’s liability insurance proof
• VIN verification (if no title available)
• For out-of-state vehicles: Additional inspection or weight certificate if commercial

Title Application After Public Sale

The buyer (or licensed dealer with GDN) files Form 130-U + completed VTR-265-S. Title transfers free of prior liens. Dealers may reassign directly.

Common Pitfalls & Expert Tips

• Missing notice deadlines → No storage fees or invalid foreclosure.
• Using the wrong form → Application rejected.
• No proof of certified mail → Use PS Form 3877.
• Law enforcement-authorized tow? Switch to VTR-265-VSF immediately.
• Tip: Keep all receipts and photos. Refer to TxDMV Motor Vehicle Title Manual Chapter 23 for examples.

VTR-265-S vs. Other Lien Forms

• VTR-265-VSF: Licensed VSFs (Occupations Code Ch. 2303).
• VTR-265-SSF: Self-service storage (Property Code Ch. 59).
• VTR-265-M: Mechanic’s liens. Use the correct form to avoid rejection.

FAQs About VTR-265-S Storage Lien Foreclosure

Can I download the VTR-265-S form for free?
Yes – directly from TxDMV: Download here.

How long does the process take?
Minimum 31+ days after proper notices.

What if the vehicle is out-of-state registered?
Extended 14-day notice window and extra verification steps.

Do I need a notary?
Yes – the affidavit must be notarized.

Can storage fees include towing?
Yes, if properly documented.

Conclusion: Secure Your Storage Lien Rights Today

The VTR-265-S Form provides a clear, legal path to recover unpaid storage charges through foreclosure and public sale in Texas. Follow the exact steps in this guide and the form instructions to ensure a smooth title transfer.

For the most current details, always check the official TxDMV website or consult the Motor Vehicle Title Manual Chapter 23. This is not legal advice—consult an attorney or TxDMV for your specific situation.

Ready to start? Download the VTR-265-S PDF now and protect your lien rights today.

Sources: Official TxDMV Form VTR-265-S (Rev 01/25) and Motor Vehicle Title Manual (October 2025 revision).